Are you planning to pursue studies or an internship in Thailand? In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about the education visa for Thailand, the required documents, the type of visa depending on your situation, and the new mandatory TDAC form for all visitors entering Thailand.
1. The Education Visa for Thailand
To study in Thailand, you need the education visa, officially known as the Non-Immigrant ED Visa. This visa is required whether you are joining a university, enrolling in a Thai language school, or studying at an international school.
University Exchange Program
If you’re part of a university exchange, you’ll need:
- An acceptance letter from your university
- A valid student card or certificate of enrollment
Thai Language Studies
You must enroll in a school recognized by the Thai Ministry of Education and attend at least 25 hours of classes per week. Before applying, make sure the school meets these criteria.
Enrolling in a Thai Institution Independently
You must present:
- An official admission letter from the school or university
- A copy of the ID card of the person who signed the letter, marked as a certified true copy
2. Required Documents for All Students
You must submit your visa application at the Royal Thai Embassy in your country:
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
- Completed visa application form
- One color ID photo
- Official letter of acceptance
- Class schedule
- Proof of financial resources (minimum €20,000 in savings)
- 70 EUR in cash (visa fee)
The education visa for Thailand is initially granted for 90 days. You must apply for an extension at a local Thai immigration office before expiry. The first extension requires:
- A confirmation letter from your school proving your attendance
- Updated financial proof showing you can support yourself without employment
New Rule (May 2025): All foreign visitors, including students, must fill out the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) within 3 days before entering the country. This replaces the old paper TM6 form.
Check out our dedicated guide on TDAC to understand the process with no stress.
3. Doing an Internship in Thailand: Which Visa?
Whether your internship is paid or unpaid will determine which visa you need:
Unpaid Internship
You’ll need the Non-Immigrant ED Visa. In addition to the standard documents, include:
- A signed internship agreement (convention de stage)
- A letter from your school in France detailing your internship
Paid Internship
Apply for a Non-Immigrant B Visa (Business Visa). Additional documents:
- A WP3 form submitted by the employer to the Thai Department of Employment
- Or an official letter from the Board of Investment of Thailand (BOI)
4. Documents Required for Internships (All Cases)
- Passport and photocopy
- Completed visa application form
- One ID photo
- Invitation letter from the host company
- Company registration certificate (commercial registration)
- Letter from your school
- Copy of the signatory’s ID (certified)
- Visa fee: €70 (cash)
Conclusion
Obtaining an education visa for Thailand or a visa for an internship requires proper preparation and the correct documentation. Whether you’re enrolling in university, studying Thai, or starting an internship, make sure to apply for the appropriate visa. And don’t forget—since May 2025, the TDAC is mandatory for all foreigners entering Thailand.
FAQs
1. What type of visa do I need to study in Thailand?
You will need the Non-Immigrant ED Visa, also known as the education visa for Thailand, to enroll in academic or language programs.
2. Is the TDAC mandatory for students entering Thailand?
Yes. Since May 2025, all foreign nationals must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online within 3 days before arrival.
3. Can I extend my education visa while in Thailand?
Yes. You can apply for a visa extension at Thai immigration. You’ll need proof of continued study and financial support.
